The Basset Hound is one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world, with its long ears, droopy eyes, and short, sturdy legs. Originally bred for hunting small game such as rabbits, the Basset Hound combines a keen sense of smell with a calm, affectionate temperament. Despite its slightly comical appearance, this breed is a serious scent hound and one of the best trackers in the canine world—second only to the Bloodhound.
Beloved for their gentle nature and loyalty, Basset Hounds make excellent companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. Their laid-back demeanor and adorable personality have earned them a place in countless homes and hearts.
History and Origins
The Basset Hound hails from France, where it was bred down from larger scent hounds such as the St. Hubert Hound. The term “Basset” comes from the French word bas, meaning “low,” referring to the dog’s short stature. By the 16th century, Basset Hounds were being used by French aristocrats for hunting, particularly on foot, thanks to their slow and deliberate tracking style.
They gained popularity in England and later the United States, where they became both hunting dogs and family pets. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1885, and it has remained a favorite ever since.
Physical Appearance
The Basset Hound’s appearance is unmistakable. With a long, heavy body and short legs, it’s built close to the ground—perfect for following a scent trail. Its distinctive features include:
- Height: 13 to 15 inches
- Weight: 40 to 65 pounds
- Coat: Short, smooth, and dense
- Color: Commonly tricolor (black, white, and brown) or bicolor (lemon and white or red and white)
- Ears: Extremely long, velvety, and set low
- Eyes: Sad, droopy, with a soulful expression
- Tail: Carried high with a slight curve
This breed may look slow and lazy, but it’s actually built for endurance in the field.
Temperament and Personality
Basset Hounds are known for their gentle, affectionate, and even-tempered nature. They are social dogs who thrive on companionship and love being around people and other animals.
Key personality traits include:
- Laid-back and calm: Bassets are often described as “easy-going” and make great couch companions.
- Stubborn but intelligent: They can be independent and a bit hard-headed, especially during training.
- Affectionate and loyal: They form strong bonds with their families and often enjoy cuddling.
- Good with children and other pets: Their friendly, tolerant nature makes them a good choice for multi-pet households.
Though not overly vocal, Bassets do have a deep, melodious bark and a tendency to howl when lonely or bored.
Training and Exercise
Training a Basset Hound can be a bit of a challenge due to their independent streak. They respond best to positive reinforcement, patience, and consistency.
Training tips:
- Keep sessions short and fun
- Use treats and praise as motivation
- Be patient and avoid harsh corrections
- Start socialization early
While Bassets aren’t high-energy dogs, they do need regular exercise to stay healthy and prevent obesity.
Exercise needs:
- Daily walks (they love to sniff!)
- Playtime in a secure yard
- Interactive games and mental stimulation
Because of their incredible sense of smell, always walk them on a leash—if they catch a scent, they’ll follow it without hesitation.
Health and Grooming
The Basset Hound is generally a healthy breed, but its unique body shape makes it prone to certain health issues.
Common concerns include:
- Ear infections (due to long ears and low air circulation)
- Back problems (because of their long spine)
- Obesity (they love food and can gain weight easily)
- Bloat or gastric torsion
Routine vet visits and a healthy diet can go a long way in preventing many of these issues.
Grooming needs:
- Brush weekly to remove loose hair
- Clean ears regularly to prevent infections
- Bathe occasionally, as needed
- Trim nails and check wrinkles and folds for moisture buildup
Ideal Home Environment
Basset Hounds are very adaptable and can live in various environments, including apartments, as long as they get daily walks. They are best suited for homes where they won’t be left alone for long periods, as they crave companionship.
They do well in families, with other dogs, and with children. However, because of their strong hunting instincts, smaller animals like rodents or birds may trigger their prey drive.
Final Thoughts
The Basset Hound is a charming, lovable dog with a big heart and a nose that doesn’t quit. While they might test your patience during training, their devotion, friendliness, and adorable personality more than make up for it. Whether lounging on the sofa or following a scent trail with determination, the Basset Hound is sure to bring joy, loyalty, and laughter into any home lucky enough to have one.
